Covered are the basics of DEM surface conversion and use of that surface data via a Map FDO connection inside Civil 3D.
Keep in mind - A DEM data source in a Civil 3D surface is not the same thing.
Do not take lightly where you put the FDO data sources inside your Civil 3D project.
Map Style thematics and visual display control are different from Civil 3D Style mechanics and are certainly worth learning.